Microchannel Heat Exchangers

Single-phase microchannel heat exchangers are capable of dissipating heat fluxes in excess of 1000 W/cm2 with water. However, large flow rates are required resulting in a large pressure drop and increased pumping power. Two-phase microchannel heat exchangers use the latent heat of vaporization to reduce flow rates, pumping power and thermal gradients. However, flow distribution through parallel channels and flow instabilities limit their practical implementation.

Mainstream is currently researching and developing of improved single-phase and two-phase microchannels that resolve this shortcoming. Additionally, Mainstream is developing new and innovative ways of fabricating microchannel heat exchangers for efficient, cost-effective solutions to real-world problems.